Minnetonka chimneys, from 1950s masonry to 1980s fireplaces
The 1980s produced the largest share of Minnetonka's homes, 26.9%, and only 3.8% were built before 1940. Much of the rest went up between 1950 and 1970. So here we see two main kinds of chimneys: masonry on the older houses and factory-built fireplaces with metal flues on many newer ones.
Factory-built fireplaces and metal flues
Many homes from the 1980s have a factory-built fireplace. It is a metal firebox with a metal chimney pipe, boxed in by a wood-framed chase that is sided to match the house. On top of the chase sits a metal cover called a chase cover.
Older chase covers were often plain steel. Over time they rust, sag in the middle and hold water. That water drips into the chase, rots the framing and leaves rust streaks on the siding. A new stainless cover with a slope or crease sheds water instead of holding it.
Inside, factory-built units need their own care. Firebox panels crack, the metal pipe can separate at the joints, and some models were only meant for certain logs or inserts. A chimney inspection checks all of it against how the unit was designed.
Masonry chimneys from 1950 to 1970
Much of Minnetonka's single-family housing was built between 1950 and 1970, and parts of the city stayed farms and horse pasture into the 1960s. Brick chimneys from those decades now often need a new crown, fresh flashing or a liner sized to a newer furnace or water heater.
Townhomes and multifamily buildings
Most of the city's multifamily housing dates from the 1970s and 1980s. In townhomes and condos, dryer vents can run a long way to an outside wall or the roof, and lint builds up fast. We also offer dryer vent cleaning for these homes.
What Minnetonka homes usually need
- Chase cover check for rust and standing water
- Inspection of factory-built fireboxes and pipe
- Crown and flashing repair on 1950s-60s masonry
- Dryer vent cleaning for long vent runs
If your fireplace has a model plate, take a photo of it before your visit. It helps us confirm which parts fit.
Minnetonka fireplace and chimney questions
How do I know if my Minnetonka fireplace is factory-built?
Look inside the firebox. Metal walls or panels, a metal flue pipe, and a chimney boxed in siding instead of brick usually mean it is factory-built. Most have a metal model plate near the opening or behind the lower grille.
Why is there a rust stain running down my chimney chase?
That usually means the chase cover on top is rusting and holding water. Replacing it with a sloped stainless cover stops the stain and keeps water from getting into the framing.
Do you serve Glen Lake, Minnetonka Mills and Ridgedale?
Yes. Minnetonka is part of our service area, including Glen Lake, Minnetonka Mills, Ridgedale, Opus and Shady Oak. Request a time online or call.
Plan your Minnetonka chimney service
Minneapolis and the west metro